The New York Yankees have begun reshaping their infield ahead of the 31 July trade deadline, signing veteran utilityman Nicky Lopez to a minor-league contract and losing infielder CJ Alexander on a waiver claim by the Los Angeles Dodgers, who in turn designated outfielder Steward Berroa for assignment. Lopez, 30, is expected to report to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after stops this season with the Angels, Cubs and Diamondbacks. Although he is hitting just .042 in limited major-league action this year, the glove-first infielder delivered a .300/.365/.378 line in 2021 and has extensive experience across the diamond, providing New York with depth while it pursues larger upgrades. Multiple reports say the Yankees are actively calling rival clubs about third-base options and have shown interest in Colorado Rockies regular Ryan McMahon. The front office views Jazz Chisholm Jr. as its long-term second baseman and is seeking to move struggling veteran DJ LeMahieu into a reserve role, underscoring the urgency to acquire a starter at the hot corner. General manager Brian Cashman’s early moves signal a willingness to act quickly in a crowded American League playoff race, with further transactions expected as the market clarifies over the next four weeks.